Rango Movie Makes Chameleons Cool - Owning Them Is Not

THE NEW CHILDREN’S MOVIE RANGO is sure to prompt an interest in chameleons, iguanas and other reptiles. However, Associated Humane Societies/Popcorn Park warns against bringing one of these creatures into your home.

“Kids love reptiles, no doubt. But reptiles of any type are not meant to live in the confines of a household tank or cage. Each year thousands of these creatures are abandoned or surrendered by folks who don’t understand the responsibility of owning a reptile. What’s more, this wild animal will most definitely not thrive and will probably suffer and die an early death because its necessary living conditions are really difficult to create in a home environment,” said Roseann Trezza, Executive Director, Associated Humane Societies/Popcorn Park.

Rango, an animated full-length movie featuring the voice of Johnny Depp, tells the story of a chameleon with an identity crisis who ends up venturing into a western town. The comedy, which opens in theaters this Friday, is expected to be a blockbuster for kids and adults alike.

“Oftentimes when a family movie that features a specific animal is released, it prompts people to go out and buy that animal. That’s usually followed by a surge of abandonments and relinquishments at shelters because the well-meaning pet purchaser did not learn about the creature’s special needs,” Ms. Trezza said. “This is particularly worrisome with a movie about reptiles, since their needs are so particular, and yet they are so inexpensive and easy to buy.”